Funky Nail Problems Solved

You can beat out ridges, fungus, white spots and other skin problems with these tools

Symptom: Dry nails and cuticlesCause: Cold, arid air sucks the moisture out of hands and nails, according to Jin Soon Choi, owner of New York City's Natural Hand and Foot Spas. Dishwashing liquid is also super-harsh and drying, Choi says.

Fix: Doug Schoon, nail expert and scientist for CND, says hydrating the entire the nail plate is key. He explains that (carefully) removing white, flaky bits of cuticle (dead skin on the nail plate) with sharp nippers is okay, but warns against cutting or aggressively pushing back the skin at the nail base (called the eponychium). "This is living tissue that prevents bacteria from getting into the skin, and you can cause an infection by removing it," he says. "Just keep it moisturized and gently push it back, and in about a month it'll be smoother and less overgrown." Prevention is the best medicine, and gloves are your new best friend, whether they're rubber (for dishes) or woolly (for warmth). Always slather on moisturizing products and drink plenty of water to keep hydrated from the inside out, Choi says. "You don't need pricey stuff. I love Sally Hansen Maximum Growth Cuticle Pen, $5.49 because it's easy to carry and use." Nails need moisture too, so rub it in and follow with Sally Hansen Shea Butter Hand and Body Butter,$6.95.